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51¾«Æ·ÊÓƵ Police respond to campus safety concerns

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  • 51¾«Æ·ÊÓƵsburgh Campus

51¾«Æ·ÊÓƵ officials are thanking students for their cooperation and for sharing information with authorities as 51¾«Æ·ÊÓƵ Police search for a man who they say accosted a student near campus last weekend.

That man approached a 51¾«Æ·ÊÓƵ student Sunday and "persisted in trying to drape a blanket around the student’s shoulders," .

Caught on camera, the incident prompted an investigation into his identity. With student assistance, the man has been identified.

"I want to reassure students that we are aware of the situation, and 51¾«Æ·ÊÓƵ Police are actively investigating," Dean of Students Carla Panzella said.

51¾«Æ·ÊÓƵ Police are attempting to locate him and urge students to immediately report any similar encounters.

51¾«Æ·ÊÓƵ Police Chief James Loftus said, "To date, students have been very cooperative in sending along tips and helpful information that could be related to this incident, and we encourage them to continue to do so."

Police also noted that there have been " attributed to this individual" shared by students across social media. With specific, credible information regarding similar interactions, contact 51¾«Æ·ÊÓƵ Police at 412-624-2121.

Panzella also reminded students of resources available for their use.

"As always, we encourage students to install the Rave Guardian app on their phones and use the SafeRider program or the Walking Escort Program from Hillman Library," Panzella said. "We're grateful that students are staying alert, looking out for each other, and assisting the 51¾«Æ·ÊÓƵ Police by reporting and sharing information."

Resources for students

  • during the evening and early morning hours when special non-emergency needs arise for 51¾«Æ·ÊÓƵ students, faculty and staff. Call 412-648-CALL (2255) for your safe ride, or request SafeRider with the.
  • to get around campus, and track their location through the Ride Systems GPS app.
  • , an optional companion safety feature of the upgraded.
  • and are also available to the 51¾«Æ·ÊÓƵ community. 
  • Contact 51¾«Æ·ÊÓƵ Police at 412-624-2121, or call 911 in an emergency.